The beginning of 2015 is the perfect opportunity to get your finances in order. One part of this is to make note of the important financial dates in the coming year. This way you will be prepared in advance.

Tax Deadlines

Taxes are a must-pay. There are several tax deadlines of which to be aware. January 15th is the last estimated tax payment deadline date for 2014 taxes. Anyone who is required to pay estimated tax is familiar with this date. Similar estimated tax dates are April 15th, June 15th, and September 15th.

Financial institutions and employers are required to send out important tax information by February 2nd. These can include W-2s and 1099s. It pays to have a folder or electronic file prepared to store these documents. This saves you from hunting for them as you struggle to pay your taxes by the April 15th deadline.

Some taxpayers who have very simple tax situations may skip the January 15th estimated payment but must file their taxes by January 31st. In 2015, that date moves to February 2nd since January 31st is a Saturday.

Most investors will want to wait to file their taxes their brokerage or mutual fund company may send information after February 2nd. This is because some tax related information may be late arriving to the brokerage so they file an extension. You want to wait for the final tax documents to come to you so that you do not have to file an amended return.

Dividends

Dividends are usually paid out each quarter. The date will vary from one company to another. It pays to keep a record of these dates. One reason is so that you know the ex-dividend date and the record date. You do not want to invest in a stock on the ex-dividend date since you will not receive the dividend. You do want to invest before the record date so that you are on the company’s books and will receive the dividend.

Maturity Dates

It pays to track any maturity dates of bonds and certificate of deposits. This allows you time to put in reinvestment orders for individual bonds such as Treasuries. Plus, you can research CD rates and check your finances. This way you will know if you need the money or where to reinvest it at the best rates.

IRA Contributions

Remember you have until April 15th to make a contribution to your IRA for 2014. This can benefit you immensely in the long run as your money can grow tax deferred. Plus, you can reduce your taxes with your traditional IRA contribution if you meet the IRS requirements.

Everyone has their own personal financial dates to add to this list. Keeping a calendar or app updated with these dates can help you remember them. This can save you money and hassle.